By Jason Hillier
Dramatic landscapes, ice formations, unique wildlife, and incredible natural phenomena at any time of year, visiting the Arctic is a once in a lifetime opportunity for many travelers, adventurers, and photographers. Get a chance to witness the serene beauty of nature in the Arctic Kingdom.
Q. One little-known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to the Arctic Tundra region?
The Canadian Arctic is home to more than 60% of the world’s polar bear population.You’ll have opportunities for wildlife viewing, including chances to see polar bears on land and swimming, walrus, bowhead whales and more. Imagine the joy of see swimming polar bears as the gain access to the open water or catch bowhead whales as they arrive in their summer molting sites.
Q. What is a must buy when in Pangnirtung?
The quintessential hat of the Arctic. The Pangnirtung or “Pang Hat”.
Q. One takeaway after a visit to this region?
The Arctic is rapidly changing, it won’t look the same tomorrow as it does today – every day is a new experience.
Q. What is your advice to first-time travelers?
Arctic Kingdom trips are not intended to have set itineraries or sights to be seen crossed off in a short period of time. We believe in taking things as they come, to relax and enjoy the opportunities, be it a sunny or foggy day, to appreciate where you are in the moment, and fall into the lifestyle of the local people.
Q. One thing to definitely pack when travelling to the Arctic Tundra region?
A Parka! It is a large windproof jacket with a hood, designed to be worn in cold weather..
Q. One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss.
Experiencing the floe edge. Also known as the “line of life”, the floe edge is where the land-fast ice meets the open water of the Arctic Ocean. This is one place where Arctic wildlife come to congregate, offering incredible opportunities for viewing narwhal, polar bears, beluga, seals and more.
Q. Where should anyone, travelling to this region, definitely get their picture taken.
One must get their pictures clicked amongst the vast and spectacular landscapes of Tundra and during autumn and winter, while you’re gazing up at the Northern Lights.
Q. Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?
Panoramic pictures of the vast sea ice, dramatic mountains, icebergs, and possibly wildlife.
Q. The best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?
Qikiqtarjuaq in August is a place one should visit as the days are long and vibrant and the sunsets are seemingly endless yet stunning.
Q. The most romantic place to take a special someone to.
Any of our Arctic Safari destinations! One of the most special experiences is the chance to share with a partner-exclusive and life-altering moment that very few people in the world have had, in some of the most spectacular places on Earth.
Q. Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend.
Arctic Char is a delicacy which is served in soups, sushi or pan fried.
Q. One place only the locals would know.
The floe edge which is where polar bears, whales, seals and birds congregate in the spring. It’s like a watering hole in the Serengeti!
Q. The best pub and best place to catch up for a drink.
The Tundra Inn in Churchill, MB.
Q. A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see.
Toonik Tyme is the largest annual festival in Nunavut. Each year the Toonik Tyme Society, local organizations and businesses, and over 100 volunteers work together to provide residents and visitors with a cultural festival that celebrates the arrival of spring with a number of traditional activities that reflect Inuit culture. Canada Day on July 1 is also a fun day to visit the small hamlets of Nunavut.
Q. Which is the one thing these guidebooks miss out on telling us?
The people of the North, Inuit, have a great sense of humor and can are great storytellers.
Q. Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to this region and what would that reason be?
From December to February as the Arctic is extremely dark and cold at this time of year.
Q. In one sentence, The Arctic Tundra is ?
The Arctic is like nowhere else on Earth as it is peaceful and wild.
Jason Hillier, 45+ yrs old.
VP Product Management, Arctic Kingdom
Originally I am from the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada but I’ve spend most of my time in Nunavut for work and pleasure. We love exploring this beautiful land with our guests!
